Unite for a Barrier-Free Alberta: Rallies in Alberta Call for Strong Accessibility Legislation

CALGARY, Alberta - Sept. 17, 2024 - PRLog -- Mark your calendars for September 28th as Albertans unite in Calgary at the McDougall Centre, East Lawn, and the Alberta Legislature Building in Edmonton from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM to advocate for strong and effective Accessibility Legislation at the Accessibility NOW rally.
Alberta remains one of the last provinces in Canada without comprehensive Accessibility
Legislation. The time for change is now. The Accessibility NOW rally is not just an event; it's a movement that will celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities and call for a barrier free province. Voices must be united to ensure Alberta leads the way in accessibility and inclusion.
Provincial legislation must provide clear guidelines on achieving accessibility and enforce
consequences for non-compliance, thereby improving systems, policies, programs, and services for everyone. Ensuring all Albertans can participate fully in society will allow everyone to live with dignity and independence. Decisions about accessibility should involve those with lived experiences of disabilities.
"When organizations improve accessibility, people with disabilities have greater opportunities to engage in their communities, find meaningful employment, access goods and services, use public transportation, and physically access public spaces and businesses. The Government of Alberta must pass Accessibility Legislation to make the province more accessible and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. Barrier-Free Alberta (BFA) is at the forefront of efforts to make an Accessibility Act a reality. The Accessibility NOW rally allows everyone to be a part of making history, ensuring Alberta is a province where everyone can thrive, free from barriers. Together, a
more inclusive and equitable future for all can be created." says Michelle Kristinson, Government Relations & Advocacy Manager with Cerebral Palsy Alberta.
The rally aims to bring together all Albertans who believe in equality and accessibility. During the rally, attendees can expect a program led by distinguished speakers with lived experiences in an educational and inclusive environment. The Provincial Government is urged to pass clear, realistic, and firm Accessibility Legislation that will eliminate barriers and enhance the quality of life for all Albertans. Accessibility affects every aspect of society including where people live and work, the education they receive, their healthcare access, and how they communicate. www.barrierfreeab.ca